Packaging and Decay-Control Systems for Storage and Transit of Table Grapes for Export

Abstract

In-package slow-release SO₂ generators installed in vented lugs of `Cardinal9 grapes and supplemented with SO<sub>2</sub> gas fumigation controlled decay as well for 48 days of storage as did conventional weekly SO<sub>2</sub> treatments, provided cooling was completed in 3 hours before a polyethylene bag closed the vents of the container. If combination generators with fast- and slow-release stages were used with no further SO<sub>2</sub> treatment, decay control was just as effective even with 48 hours of cooling before the vents were closed. Stem freshness was significantly reduced with length of cooling period. A test with `Emperor9 grapes showed the same trends after storage for 103 days. Further, generators placed both above and below the packed fruit controlled decay significantly better than did a generator placed only on top.